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Montgomery Ink #4.5
Hidden Ink
The Montgomery Ink series continues with the long-awaited romance between the café owner next door and the tattoo artist who's loved her from afar.
Hailey Monroe knows the world isn't always fair, but she's picked herself up from the ashes once before and if she needs to, she'll do it again. It's been years since she first spotted the tattoo artist with a scowl that made her heart skip a beat, but now she's finally gained the courage to approach him. Only it won't be about what their future could bring, but how to finish healing the scars from her past.
Sloane Gordon lived through the worst kinds of hell yet the temptation next door sends him to another level. He's kept his distance because he knows what kind of man he is versus what kind of man Hailey needs. When she comes to him with a proposition that sends his mind whirling and his soul shattering, he'll do everything in his power to protect the woman he cares for and the secrets he's been forced to keep.
Hailey Monroe knows the world isn't always fair, but she's picked herself up from the ashes once before and if she needs to, she'll do it again. It's been years since she first spotted the tattoo artist with a scowl that made her heart skip a beat, but now she's finally gained the courage to approach him. Only it won't be about what their future could bring, but how to finish healing the scars from her past.
Sloane Gordon lived through the worst kinds of hell yet the temptation next door sends him to another level. He's kept his distance because he knows what kind of man he is versus what kind of man Hailey needs. When she comes to him with a proposition that sends his mind whirling and his soul shattering, he'll do everything in his power to protect the woman he cares for and the secrets he's been forced to keep.
124 pages, ebook
First published January 12, 2016
287 people are currently reading
1598 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Ann Ryan
265 books6,321 followersCarrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
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February 5, 2017
3 stars!
Full Review for 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle Nine at Of Pens and Pages.
Hidden Ink is a novella in the Montgomery Ink series, and although I haven’t read that one yet, I was able to follow along. The Montgomery crew and their SOs were reintroduced, but the focus of this story is about Hailey, the owner of the cafe beside the Montgomery’s tattoo parlor, and Sloane, one of the tattoo artists. The two have been circling around each other for a while but haven’t made that jump to be together for their own reasons. Hailey hasn’t told anyone she was a breast cancer survivor and that it left many scars on her body, and Sloane hasn’t talked about his life before . I admire Hailey for her strength and generally positive outlook, but there were more “I don’t deserve her” Sloane monologues more than anything, and it was a bit much.
*Read as part of the 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle Nine anthology
*ARC received in exchanged for an honest review.
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Full Review for 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle Nine at Of Pens and Pages.
Hidden Ink is a novella in the Montgomery Ink series, and although I haven’t read that one yet, I was able to follow along. The Montgomery crew and their SOs were reintroduced, but the focus of this story is about Hailey, the owner of the cafe beside the Montgomery’s tattoo parlor, and Sloane, one of the tattoo artists. The two have been circling around each other for a while but haven’t made that jump to be together for their own reasons. Hailey hasn’t told anyone she was a breast cancer survivor and that it left many scars on her body, and Sloane hasn’t talked about his life before . I admire Hailey for her strength and generally positive outlook, but there were more “I don’t deserve her” Sloane monologues more than anything, and it was a bit much.
*Read as part of the 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle Nine anthology
*ARC received in exchanged for an honest review.
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January 12, 2016
Now LIVE!!!
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*
Hailey and Sloane have been circling each other for far too long. Hailey finally decides that it's time to stop pining after the quiet tattoo artist and move on with her life. She''s been through too much to not live life to the fullest. But when Sloane realizes that he's too close to losing Hailey before he ever had her, he gives up on the silent treatment and claims what's his.
I loved these characters and I was happy that I finally got to see them get their HEA. Neither Hailey nor Sloane had a happy past and they both are still suffering the aftermath of what they went through. I loved seeing them together and helping one another with their issues and insecurities.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable novella. Most of the story focused on the two MC's but we did get to see some of the other characters from this story and I liked catching up with them. If you haven't read this series yet, you really need to meet these characters!
ARC kindly provided by InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review.
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*
Hailey and Sloane have been circling each other for far too long. Hailey finally decides that it's time to stop pining after the quiet tattoo artist and move on with her life. She''s been through too much to not live life to the fullest. But when Sloane realizes that he's too close to losing Hailey before he ever had her, he gives up on the silent treatment and claims what's his.
I loved these characters and I was happy that I finally got to see them get their HEA. Neither Hailey nor Sloane had a happy past and they both are still suffering the aftermath of what they went through. I loved seeing them together and helping one another with their issues and insecurities.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable novella. Most of the story focused on the two MC's but we did get to see some of the other characters from this story and I liked catching up with them. If you haven't read this series yet, you really need to meet these characters!
ARC kindly provided by InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2017
Hailey and Sloane's happily ever after was hard won. Shoot the battle had started before they'd even me. They both carried those battle scars and the weight wasn't only physical. Friends for years, they had circled around each other and fought against their inevitability. Finally giving in to their feelings, they had to put their ghosts to rest, accept their flaws, and learn to count on each other for love, support and acceptance. The characters were endearing, their stories were heartbreaking, and their beginning was beautiful.
Release Date: January 12, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 3rd person
Steam: 3 out of 5
Book Type: Standalone novella
*Read as part of the 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle Nine anthology
Release Date: January 12, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 3rd person
Steam: 3 out of 5
Book Type: Standalone novella
*Read as part of the 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle Nine anthology
January 15, 2016
This was an Ok read for me.
Hailey is a breast cancer survivor, and Sloane is ex military with PTSD. I liked Hailey, she was a strong character and didn't let her past cancer bring her down. Sloane I didn't like as much, he spent the vast majority of the book being "woe is me", and "I am not good enough for her" The push/pull angst was a bit much, and lasted a bit to long for me considering this was just a novella.
Overall though it was an OK read.
Hailey is a breast cancer survivor, and Sloane is ex military with PTSD. I liked Hailey, she was a strong character and didn't let her past cancer bring her down. Sloane I didn't like as much, he spent the vast majority of the book being "woe is me", and "I am not good enough for her" The push/pull angst was a bit much, and lasted a bit to long for me considering this was just a novella.
Overall though it was an OK read.
January 13, 2016
I loved this one, but found myself reading through tears for most of it. I've loved the bit we've gotten to see with Hailey so far in the series, but this...this makes me love her even more. I loved that Sloan finally stepped up to the plate, that he didn't run when he learned Hailey's secret, but wanted to bash him over the head when he did run later. It was a good thing Hailey didn't let him. If I had one complaint it was that we didn't get to see what the tattoo looked like, I would have really loved that!
December 28, 2019
In Hidden Ink you will meet Hailey and Sloane. She owns the café next to the tattoo parlor where Sloane works. Interesting enough that they are work next door neighbors.. so maybe it will be the kind of "girl/guy next door relationship' as well?
It really was that sort of thing. They were cute trying to dodge each other left and right but a relationship was bound to happen to them. These two had crazy chemistry and definitely needed to lean on one another's shoulders from time to time. Yes, they both had a past that they didn't want to share to anyone.. but it wasn't always going to keep someone at arm's length.
Overall, they were so freaking cute. I just wish that Sloane was less dramatic when it came to Hailey. The whole 'I don't deserve them' makes my eyes roll constantly. Just kiss and get jiggy with it.
It really was that sort of thing. They were cute trying to dodge each other left and right but a relationship was bound to happen to them. These two had crazy chemistry and definitely needed to lean on one another's shoulders from time to time. Yes, they both had a past that they didn't want to share to anyone.. but it wasn't always going to keep someone at arm's length.
Overall, they were so freaking cute. I just wish that Sloane was less dramatic when it came to Hailey. The whole 'I don't deserve them' makes my eyes roll constantly. Just kiss and get jiggy with it.
January 12, 2016
Loved Hailey and Sloane. Hailey's struggles as a survivor really touched my heart.
January 23, 2016
I absolutely adored this book. It went straight to my heart and I loved every single minute of it. Even though I am new to this series and am jumping in the middle of the over arching story line, I did not feel like I was lost one little bit. Carrie Ann Ryan was more than able to portray the strong emotions of longing and unrequited love between Sloane and Hailey.
Hidden Ink is the story of two physical and emotionally scared souls who meet and find they are kindred spirits. Sloane is a former military man who has made it back from the war with a tired, battered, and weary soul. He also has a major case of PTSD with soul screaming nightmares. He's been working as a full time artist at Montgomery Ink which seems to be helping to heal him and integrate him back into society. Hailey owns and runs the bakery Taboo next door to Montgomery Ink and has become apart of their family since the two buildings are connected by a single door. From the first moment that Sloane and hailey laid eyes on each other, they have a had an intense connection and amazing chemistry. But Sloane has refused to make a move because he doesn't think that he is good enough for her. He believes that he will taint her good with his "bad soul". Little does he know that Hailey has deep and dark secrets of her own.
"And until he could know for sure that the darkness within him wouldn't touch Hailey, he had to hold himself back. He'd known he was playing with fire by waiting, by watching for years and never doing more. But she'd held back, too. She'd know it wasn't the right time yet."
I was brought to tears when Hailey's secret was revealed. This book deals with tough, relatable, and real life situations and I think they were handled perfectly. Carrie Ann Ryan's writing is lyrical, profound, and just hits you right in the gut. I loved how strong each of her characters ended up being, even when they didn't feel strong themselves. I loved that they kept persevering and had hope for the future. I will easily be adding the rest of the Montgomery Ink series to my TBR.
For more reviews please visit: https://bookspieandcoffee.wordpress.com/
Hidden Ink is the story of two physical and emotionally scared souls who meet and find they are kindred spirits. Sloane is a former military man who has made it back from the war with a tired, battered, and weary soul. He also has a major case of PTSD with soul screaming nightmares. He's been working as a full time artist at Montgomery Ink which seems to be helping to heal him and integrate him back into society. Hailey owns and runs the bakery Taboo next door to Montgomery Ink and has become apart of their family since the two buildings are connected by a single door. From the first moment that Sloane and hailey laid eyes on each other, they have a had an intense connection and amazing chemistry. But Sloane has refused to make a move because he doesn't think that he is good enough for her. He believes that he will taint her good with his "bad soul". Little does he know that Hailey has deep and dark secrets of her own.
"And until he could know for sure that the darkness within him wouldn't touch Hailey, he had to hold himself back. He'd known he was playing with fire by waiting, by watching for years and never doing more. But she'd held back, too. She'd know it wasn't the right time yet."
I was brought to tears when Hailey's secret was revealed. This book deals with tough, relatable, and real life situations and I think they were handled perfectly. Carrie Ann Ryan's writing is lyrical, profound, and just hits you right in the gut. I loved how strong each of her characters ended up being, even when they didn't feel strong themselves. I loved that they kept persevering and had hope for the future. I will easily be adding the rest of the Montgomery Ink series to my TBR.
For more reviews please visit: https://bookspieandcoffee.wordpress.com/
September 11, 2016
Hailey & Sloane
Hailey owns Taboo the cafe next to Montgomery Ink. Hailey loves to bake and has the best coffee around. She is always taking tasty treats over to Montgomery Ink. The Montgomery family is a tight family but if you are friends of them then you are family too. Hailey falls into that category.
Sloane is a tattoo artist at Montgomery Ink. He works for Maya & Austin Montgomery but Sloane is family as far as they are concerned. Sloane has a secret past that no one asks about. They assume he has been to war and my have PTSD. They would be right but the depth of that PTSD and self loathing goes very deep.
Hailey has a secret past of her own. She has chosen not to share the information with anyone because it was such a long time ago. She was 20 when the news of a medical condition changed her life. She does not want her friends to see her differently. But Hailey is different now and will be forever changed.
Sloane and Hailey have been dancing around each other for over a year. They are friends but know that they have a chemistry that goes beyond friendship. Both are scared to cross that line into the romantic area due to their secrets. Hailey is willing to cross the line but knows that Sloane won't make the move.
When Sloane feels like Hailey might be interested in another guy and given up her desire for him, he kicks it up a notch and shocks Hailey by asking her out.
Sloanes guilt of his past and the war he was part of keeps telling him that he is not good enough for Hailey and Hailey has to reveal the one secret she knows she will not be able to hide from Sloane.
With their friends and family the couple might manage to make it through the tough times of their rocky pasts to have a future together.
Rating: 3 1/2 Stars
Hailey owns Taboo the cafe next to Montgomery Ink. Hailey loves to bake and has the best coffee around. She is always taking tasty treats over to Montgomery Ink. The Montgomery family is a tight family but if you are friends of them then you are family too. Hailey falls into that category.
Sloane is a tattoo artist at Montgomery Ink. He works for Maya & Austin Montgomery but Sloane is family as far as they are concerned. Sloane has a secret past that no one asks about. They assume he has been to war and my have PTSD. They would be right but the depth of that PTSD and self loathing goes very deep.
Hailey has a secret past of her own. She has chosen not to share the information with anyone because it was such a long time ago. She was 20 when the news of a medical condition changed her life. She does not want her friends to see her differently. But Hailey is different now and will be forever changed.
Sloane and Hailey have been dancing around each other for over a year. They are friends but know that they have a chemistry that goes beyond friendship. Both are scared to cross that line into the romantic area due to their secrets. Hailey is willing to cross the line but knows that Sloane won't make the move.
When Sloane feels like Hailey might be interested in another guy and given up her desire for him, he kicks it up a notch and shocks Hailey by asking her out.
Sloanes guilt of his past and the war he was part of keeps telling him that he is not good enough for Hailey and Hailey has to reveal the one secret she knows she will not be able to hide from Sloane.
With their friends and family the couple might manage to make it through the tough times of their rocky pasts to have a future together.
Rating: 3 1/2 Stars
January 13, 2016
4,5 stars
Please note: Contrary to my usual reviews I couldn't keep this write-up entirely spoiler-free. So beware if, like me, you don't want to read spoilers for a book you haven't read yet.
This book! It alternated between giving me a tight knotty feeling in the vincinity of my heart (lump-in-throat emotional? Check!) and causing shivers of heat (hot and sexy? Check!).
Both Hailey and Sloan have fought battles and are still fighting them and are scarred, each one's reason/cause for that is different but deep down they are in the same kind of boat and that really shone through in this heart-wrenching love story.
Carrie Ann Ryan definitely didn't pull any punches in this emotionally heavy novella. Breast cancer, PTSD and survivor guilt are not topics you immediately expect to find in a romance novella but realistically they are topics that are part of life and I personally think Ryan handled this perfectly and admire her for having the courage to create the two main characters of this novella. I can imagine not all readers will agree with me on this but I don't care because to me it was a beautiful, emotional and realistic story. One of the most realistic ones I've read in a while.
My heart ached for the characters in this story. And it is be one that will stay with me for a while.
Please note: Contrary to my usual reviews I couldn't keep this write-up entirely spoiler-free. So beware if, like me, you don't want to read spoilers for a book you haven't read yet.
This book! It alternated between giving me a tight knotty feeling in the vincinity of my heart (lump-in-throat emotional? Check!) and causing shivers of heat (hot and sexy? Check!).
Both Hailey and Sloan have fought battles and are still fighting them and are scarred, each one's reason/cause for that is different but deep down they are in the same kind of boat and that really shone through in this heart-wrenching love story.
Carrie Ann Ryan definitely didn't pull any punches in this emotionally heavy novella. Breast cancer, PTSD and survivor guilt are not topics you immediately expect to find in a romance novella but realistically they are topics that are part of life and I personally think Ryan handled this perfectly and admire her for having the courage to create the two main characters of this novella. I can imagine not all readers will agree with me on this but I don't care because to me it was a beautiful, emotional and realistic story. One of the most realistic ones I've read in a while.
My heart ached for the characters in this story. And it is be one that will stay with me for a while.
January 15, 2016
When an author shares her heart about how much a story impacted her as she put words on a page, you can't help but fall in love with the people she brings to life. Hailey and Sloane were so easy to fall head over heart for in their story. I loved that they were broken and scarred, but still stepped out to open their hearts to each other. They had been dancing around each other for way too long and they both needed to come into the light. Together. My heart broke for each as they shared their past with each other and even more so when Hailey gathered with her friends and they surrounded her with such love. This is a story about healing in the most beautiful of ways and I loved every bit of it.
I give Hidden Ink 5 hearts!
I give Hidden Ink 5 hearts!
November 29, 2025
Hidden Ink - So Freaking Good!
Hidden Ink, book 4.5 of the Montgomery Ink series by Carrie Ann Ryan @carrieannryanauthor. Carrie Ann is a fantastic author!
What a great novella about Hailey & Sloane! Tropes: Contemporary, Male/Female, PTSD, Cancer Survivor, Small 3rd Act Break Up & HEA!
Hidden Ink, book 4.5 of the Montgomery Ink series by Carrie Ann Ryan @carrieannryanauthor. Carrie Ann is a fantastic author!
What a great novella about Hailey & Sloane! Tropes: Contemporary, Male/Female, PTSD, Cancer Survivor, Small 3rd Act Break Up & HEA!
July 11, 2019
I love how Sloane and Hailey got their own story. It had the potential to be a full length novel with their backstory and the depth of both of them, but at least we got to know them both a bit better.
Love these two!
Love these two!
November 3, 2024
Sloane and Hailey have physical and emotional wounds from some horrific experiences. My heart broke for them.
But their story was sweet but spicy once it off.
But their story was sweet but spicy once it off.
January 29, 2017
Title: Hidden Ink
Author: Carrie Ann Ryan
Series: 1001 Dark Nights
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated
Release Date: January 12th, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count: 124 pages
Heat Level: # 5 flames out of 5
Rating: # 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
I absolutely love the 1001 Dark Night series [anyone who has seen some of my reviews knows this; I've done my best to read the entire set from start to finish, and I've been hooked from the very first novel I read] and Carrie Ann Ryan's Hidden Ink was an excellent addition. Considering that the series encompasses a wide variety of genres including paranormal, erotica and contemporary romance, I was excited to find out that our alpha male, Sloane, and our alpha woman [because she is strong and powerful], Hailey, were 'human' - a tattoo shop owner who must deal with the repercussions of his past in the form of PTSD, and a woman who survived the worst of hells and lives with the physical and emotional scars - they were relatable, passionate and characters that I could easily forget they were fictional. Taking Hidden Ink out of the 1001 Dark Night series context, this is the second novel that I've read written by Carrie Ann Ryan, and as the first novel, I couldn't put it down. For a novella sized story, Hidden Ink is anything but: it's jammed pack with enough action, drama, emotion and sexual chemistry that any reader would believe they were reading a full length novel. This is one author that knows how to write her tattoo alpha men in such a decadent way that we can't resist their story! It's a highly recommended read from not only the 1001 Dark Nights series, but also from Carrie Ann Ryan's Montgomery Ink series!
Find this book on Goodreads
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen from Alpha Book Club
Author: Carrie Ann Ryan
Series: 1001 Dark Nights
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated
Release Date: January 12th, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count: 124 pages
Heat Level: # 5 flames out of 5
Rating: # 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
The Montgomery Ink series continues with the long-awaited romance between the café owner next door and the tattoo artist who's loved her from afar.
Hailey Monroe knows the world isn't always fair, but she's picked herself up from the ashes once before and if she needs to, she'll do it again. It's been years since she first spotted the tattoo artist with a scowl that made her heart skip a beat, but now she's finally gained the courage to approach him. Only it won't be about what their future could bring, but how to finish healing the scars from her past.
Sloane Gordon lived through the worst kinds of hell yet the temptation next door sends him to another level. He's kept his distance because he knows what kind of man he is versus what kind of man Hailey needs. When she comes to him with a proposition that sends his mind whirling and his soul shattering, he'll do everything in his power to protect the woman he cares for and the secrets he's been forced to keep.
I absolutely love the 1001 Dark Night series [anyone who has seen some of my reviews knows this; I've done my best to read the entire set from start to finish, and I've been hooked from the very first novel I read] and Carrie Ann Ryan's Hidden Ink was an excellent addition. Considering that the series encompasses a wide variety of genres including paranormal, erotica and contemporary romance, I was excited to find out that our alpha male, Sloane, and our alpha woman [because she is strong and powerful], Hailey, were 'human' - a tattoo shop owner who must deal with the repercussions of his past in the form of PTSD, and a woman who survived the worst of hells and lives with the physical and emotional scars - they were relatable, passionate and characters that I could easily forget they were fictional. Taking Hidden Ink out of the 1001 Dark Night series context, this is the second novel that I've read written by Carrie Ann Ryan, and as the first novel, I couldn't put it down. For a novella sized story, Hidden Ink is anything but: it's jammed pack with enough action, drama, emotion and sexual chemistry that any reader would believe they were reading a full length novel. This is one author that knows how to write her tattoo alpha men in such a decadent way that we can't resist their story! It's a highly recommended read from not only the 1001 Dark Nights series, but also from Carrie Ann Ryan's Montgomery Ink series!
Find this book on Goodreads
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen from Alpha Book Club
January 18, 2016
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 stars
I'll admit I've been waiting for this book because it has been evident from the get- go that there was something between tattoo artist, Sloane Gordon and bakery owner, Hailey Monroe. It was also evident that they both were hiding something and secrets they didn't want to or weren't ready to share. For a novella, Hidden Ink packed an emotional punch as these two friends became the lovers they've wanted to be and found that sharing their secrets let them open their hearts to one another.
Friends to lovers has always been one of my favorite romance troupes so this book made me happy from the start. I enjoyed getting to know both Sloane and Hailey better and watch as they shed their emotional baggage and opened up to each other. I really don't know if either of them would have ever been able to do it with someone else, their long time friendship and the fact that they were already comfortable with one another and could read each other gave them the tools necessary to handle their situations perfectly. One thing that was for certain the years of want and playful foreplay lead to some intense and scorching sexy times.
Hidden Ink is a fantastic addition in author Carrie Ann Ryan's Montgomery Ink series and one her fans will most definitely not want to miss.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 stars
I'll admit I've been waiting for this book because it has been evident from the get- go that there was something between tattoo artist, Sloane Gordon and bakery owner, Hailey Monroe. It was also evident that they both were hiding something and secrets they didn't want to or weren't ready to share. For a novella, Hidden Ink packed an emotional punch as these two friends became the lovers they've wanted to be and found that sharing their secrets let them open their hearts to one another.
Friends to lovers has always been one of my favorite romance troupes so this book made me happy from the start. I enjoyed getting to know both Sloane and Hailey better and watch as they shed their emotional baggage and opened up to each other. I really don't know if either of them would have ever been able to do it with someone else, their long time friendship and the fact that they were already comfortable with one another and could read each other gave them the tools necessary to handle their situations perfectly. One thing that was for certain the years of want and playful foreplay lead to some intense and scorching sexy times.
Hidden Ink is a fantastic addition in author Carrie Ann Ryan's Montgomery Ink series and one her fans will most definitely not want to miss.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
June 5, 2016
The story premise wasn't a new one, one party staying away from the other because they feel they aren't good enough or worthy. The reasons for thinking this weren't even a novel concept, so why was this book so good? The characters and the writing, oh, they were awesome!!!
Hailey is torn between who she is, who she was and how to be more than the sum of her past. She has been living in the present, so she hasn't shared her past, even with her closest friends, and it bothers her. Then there is Sloan, who she has got to know, and is madly in love with, but he doesn't seem to reciprocate her feelings. There is a spark there, and she can't move past him
As if the dance around each other never happened, Sloan abruptly asks her out. They begin a relationship, in which she shares all parts of herself, but he still holds back. She senses when he starts to pull away, but is still shocked when and how it happens. Not to be cast aside, she takes on her man to make him see he isn't the only one with choices here, and she wants what she wants
There are a lot of big topics dealt with here, and deep emotions that go with them, but, the story isn't soaked in a dark cloud. It pulls the characters into the today's while not forgetting their yesterday's and the importance of making it to today
Another solid story and wonderful characters getting their HEA in the Montgomery Ink family!
Hailey is torn between who she is, who she was and how to be more than the sum of her past. She has been living in the present, so she hasn't shared her past, even with her closest friends, and it bothers her. Then there is Sloan, who she has got to know, and is madly in love with, but he doesn't seem to reciprocate her feelings. There is a spark there, and she can't move past him
As if the dance around each other never happened, Sloan abruptly asks her out. They begin a relationship, in which she shares all parts of herself, but he still holds back. She senses when he starts to pull away, but is still shocked when and how it happens. Not to be cast aside, she takes on her man to make him see he isn't the only one with choices here, and she wants what she wants
There are a lot of big topics dealt with here, and deep emotions that go with them, but, the story isn't soaked in a dark cloud. It pulls the characters into the today's while not forgetting their yesterday's and the importance of making it to today
Another solid story and wonderful characters getting their HEA in the Montgomery Ink family!
January 16, 2016
3.5 Stars!
***I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review!***
This was a short novella in the Montgomery Ink Series! I was able to read it in just a few hours, so if you are looking for a quick afternoon read then this would work well.
I was proud of the author for addressing such difficult topics in her book. This isn't just a love story with some sex, it's about coming to terms with your past and being comfortable in your own skin. It's about realizing your own worth, and the affect you have on other people without even knowing. It's about taking the time to get to know someone deep down, and accepting their "scars" as a part of who they are, rather than dismissing or judging them for it.
I liked that the main characters were deeply "flawed" either physically and/or emotionally, because it really added another level of complexity to the characters. It made them more realistic and intriguing to read about. I especially loved that by finding someone they could truly be themselves with inspired confidence in them. That it allowed for them to come to terms with things from their pasts and to move forward in a positive light.
I thought overall that this was a solid story. The deeper lying issues were more what fascinated me than the love story in general, but I think that many people will enjoy this addition to the series.
***I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review!***
This was a short novella in the Montgomery Ink Series! I was able to read it in just a few hours, so if you are looking for a quick afternoon read then this would work well.
I was proud of the author for addressing such difficult topics in her book. This isn't just a love story with some sex, it's about coming to terms with your past and being comfortable in your own skin. It's about realizing your own worth, and the affect you have on other people without even knowing. It's about taking the time to get to know someone deep down, and accepting their "scars" as a part of who they are, rather than dismissing or judging them for it.
I liked that the main characters were deeply "flawed" either physically and/or emotionally, because it really added another level of complexity to the characters. It made them more realistic and intriguing to read about. I especially loved that by finding someone they could truly be themselves with inspired confidence in them. That it allowed for them to come to terms with things from their pasts and to move forward in a positive light.
I thought overall that this was a solid story. The deeper lying issues were more what fascinated me than the love story in general, but I think that many people will enjoy this addition to the series.
January 19, 2016
ARC REVIEW
This was a perfect novella. It was the right length with everything it needed in it and without the feeling that something was missing or feeling rushed. I could not see this novella any longer or as a full length. It is perfect as it is.
The story is a heart breaking one, between both Hailey and Sloane's past it's a sad story but one so worth the read. Not only because after years of dancing around the fact that they were attracted to one another and not doing anything about it but because the meaning behind it. A message that beauty isn't skin deep and strength isn't just muscles on your body, and that scars on your body and your soul don't define who you are and that you can move past the horrors of what has happened and live in the now.
Due to Hailey flirting with some random guy Sloane finally stepped up and asked Hailey for a date. Hailey already knows she is in love with Sloane and has been for a while but she's scared the scars she carries on her body will frighten him off. Sloane has loved Hailey from the beginning but keeps her at a distance never thinking he's good enough for her that his black soul would taint her. Can they each get past their insecurities and have their HEA?
This was a perfect novella. It was the right length with everything it needed in it and without the feeling that something was missing or feeling rushed. I could not see this novella any longer or as a full length. It is perfect as it is.
The story is a heart breaking one, between both Hailey and Sloane's past it's a sad story but one so worth the read. Not only because after years of dancing around the fact that they were attracted to one another and not doing anything about it but because the meaning behind it. A message that beauty isn't skin deep and strength isn't just muscles on your body, and that scars on your body and your soul don't define who you are and that you can move past the horrors of what has happened and live in the now.
Due to Hailey flirting with some random guy Sloane finally stepped up and asked Hailey for a date. Hailey already knows she is in love with Sloane and has been for a while but she's scared the scars she carries on her body will frighten him off. Sloane has loved Hailey from the beginning but keeps her at a distance never thinking he's good enough for her that his black soul would taint her. Can they each get past their insecurities and have their HEA?
January 9, 2016
*I received this ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review*
HIDDEN INK by Carrie Ann Ryan
Hailey Monroe has come along way since she was ill. She owns a small cafe and has a great group of friends. It's been a few years since she first saw the tattoo artist that makes her heart jump. They've been circling each other for years and with a little interference from a third party, she approaches him. Not expecting what happens.
Sloane Gordan has lived through the worst kind of hell and made it. But living with PTSD is not always living but a nightmare. His watched Hailey from afar for years and they are friends. He can't have a relationship with her, his not good enough. His kept his distance, until she confronts him.
But with their pasts haunting them and the love they share, can they get past it and heal each other.
This was an intense and emotional story. The storyline was quiet captivating and touched on some ongoing complex issues, which made me tear up on more than one occasion. I loved Sloane and Hailey, your heart just went out to them. It also shows us that sometimes the love and strength of those closest to us can help pull us out of that downward spiral. What a great book. Very enjoyable. Looking forward to the next book in this series!
HIDDEN INK by Carrie Ann Ryan
Hailey Monroe has come along way since she was ill. She owns a small cafe and has a great group of friends. It's been a few years since she first saw the tattoo artist that makes her heart jump. They've been circling each other for years and with a little interference from a third party, she approaches him. Not expecting what happens.
Sloane Gordan has lived through the worst kind of hell and made it. But living with PTSD is not always living but a nightmare. His watched Hailey from afar for years and they are friends. He can't have a relationship with her, his not good enough. His kept his distance, until she confronts him.
But with their pasts haunting them and the love they share, can they get past it and heal each other.
This was an intense and emotional story. The storyline was quiet captivating and touched on some ongoing complex issues, which made me tear up on more than one occasion. I loved Sloane and Hailey, your heart just went out to them. It also shows us that sometimes the love and strength of those closest to us can help pull us out of that downward spiral. What a great book. Very enjoyable. Looking forward to the next book in this series!
January 15, 2016
Perfect
I've been waiting and hoping for this story. The wait was well worth it. Hailey and Sloane are absolute perfection. I knew their secrets would make me cry, but it was a good cry.
I've been waiting and hoping for this story. The wait was well worth it. Hailey and Sloane are absolute perfection. I knew their secrets would make me cry, but it was a good cry.
November 23, 2016
I like stories about people facing different and interesting challenges, the main characters are both survivors or different tough situations, and that makes their relationship at the same time more difficult and more profound.
Steamy and sweet short read.
Steamy and sweet short read.
February 11, 2016
TOO SHORT!! Needed it to be longer!!
August 4, 2021
[SERVICE PRESSE]
•
•
•
A l’encre des secrets de @carrie.ann.ryan
•
Je remercie l’auteure pour ce service presse.
•
•
Mon résumé :
•
Très jeune, Hailey a du faire face à une épreuve qu’elle a traversé toute seule. Remise, elle a réussi sa vie. Gérante d’un salon de thé, elle travaille à côté du salon de tatouages d’Austin Montgomery. Secrètement amoureuse de Sloane, l’un des tatoueurs, elle n’ose pas lui déclarer sa flamme.
•
Hailey est une survivante. Blessée dans sa chair, elle garde ce secret enfoui en elle. Propriétaire d’un salon de thé qui marche plutôt bien, elle est très amie avec les Montgomery, qui tiennent le salon de tatouages. Cette grande bande de potes qu’elle adore, le lui rend bien. Secrètement amoureuse de Sloane, l’un des tatoueurs, elle a peur de lui avouer ses sentiments, même si les tourtereaux se tournent autour depuis quelques années.
•
Sloane est un homme complètement brisé par son passé de militaire. Victime de stress post-traumatique, il se refuse à faire vivre cela à une femme. Secrètement amoureux de Hailey, il préfère la tenir éloignée de son cœur. Jaloux qu’un homme invite la jeune femme à boire un verre, il se décide finalement à l’inviter à sortir.
•
•
Mon ressenti final :
•
Une nouvelle poignante, qui aborde des sujets forts : le stress post-traumatique et le cancer du sein.
•
Encore une fois, je suis conquise par cette nouvelle.
•
Nous sommes en présence de deux forces de la nature, deux personnes que la vie n’a pas épargnées. Hailey est vraiment adorable, elle lutte au quotidien pour garder le moral et son salon de thé lui permet de garder la tête hors de l’eau. Entourée d’amies sincères, elle préfère garder son secret pour elle, afin de ne pas lire la pitié dans les yeux de ceux qu’elle aime. J’ai adoré ce personnage car malgré une sensibilité cachée, elle se bat pour garder la meilleure image d’elle-même. Certains jours sont plus difficiles que d’autres, mais elle garde le sourire coûte que coûte. Un personnage travaillé, tant sur le plan psychologique que sur le plan de l’écriture, m’a beaucoup touchée. Lors des scènes de sexe avec Sloane, j’ai aimé sa force et sa bienveillance.
•
Le personnage de Sloane m’a énormément plu. J’ai toujours plus d’affinités avec les personnages masculins que féminins, car ils incarnent toujours la force et l’amour brut. Notre beau tatoueur ne déroge pas à la règle. Bourru, taciturne, il sait se montrer jaloux quand il voit qu’Hailey pourrait bien lui échapper. J’ai été ravie que la jeune femme le fasse sortir de sa zone de confort, car je pressentais une histoire d’amour poignante et je n’ai pas été déçue. Dans les précédents tomes déjà, j’avais une profonde tendresse pour cet homme qui semble se préserver de tout. Il est très réservé et ne laisse personne l’approcher. Découvrir son histoire m’a enchantée. Ses failles sont nombreuses, ce qui en fait un personnage complet et attachant. Le couple qu’il forme avec Hailey est parfait, à mes yeux, car l’un va panser les blessures de l’autre.
•
Si tu veux te faire tatouer par le beau Sloane, c’est ici : https://amzn.to/3mVBsIG
•
•
•
A l’encre des secrets de @carrie.ann.ryan
•
Je remercie l’auteure pour ce service presse.
•
•
Mon résumé :
•
Très jeune, Hailey a du faire face à une épreuve qu’elle a traversé toute seule. Remise, elle a réussi sa vie. Gérante d’un salon de thé, elle travaille à côté du salon de tatouages d’Austin Montgomery. Secrètement amoureuse de Sloane, l’un des tatoueurs, elle n’ose pas lui déclarer sa flamme.
•
Hailey est une survivante. Blessée dans sa chair, elle garde ce secret enfoui en elle. Propriétaire d’un salon de thé qui marche plutôt bien, elle est très amie avec les Montgomery, qui tiennent le salon de tatouages. Cette grande bande de potes qu’elle adore, le lui rend bien. Secrètement amoureuse de Sloane, l’un des tatoueurs, elle a peur de lui avouer ses sentiments, même si les tourtereaux se tournent autour depuis quelques années.
•
Sloane est un homme complètement brisé par son passé de militaire. Victime de stress post-traumatique, il se refuse à faire vivre cela à une femme. Secrètement amoureux de Hailey, il préfère la tenir éloignée de son cœur. Jaloux qu’un homme invite la jeune femme à boire un verre, il se décide finalement à l’inviter à sortir.
•
•
Mon ressenti final :
•
Une nouvelle poignante, qui aborde des sujets forts : le stress post-traumatique et le cancer du sein.
•
Encore une fois, je suis conquise par cette nouvelle.
•
Nous sommes en présence de deux forces de la nature, deux personnes que la vie n’a pas épargnées. Hailey est vraiment adorable, elle lutte au quotidien pour garder le moral et son salon de thé lui permet de garder la tête hors de l’eau. Entourée d’amies sincères, elle préfère garder son secret pour elle, afin de ne pas lire la pitié dans les yeux de ceux qu’elle aime. J’ai adoré ce personnage car malgré une sensibilité cachée, elle se bat pour garder la meilleure image d’elle-même. Certains jours sont plus difficiles que d’autres, mais elle garde le sourire coûte que coûte. Un personnage travaillé, tant sur le plan psychologique que sur le plan de l’écriture, m’a beaucoup touchée. Lors des scènes de sexe avec Sloane, j’ai aimé sa force et sa bienveillance.
•
Le personnage de Sloane m’a énormément plu. J’ai toujours plus d’affinités avec les personnages masculins que féminins, car ils incarnent toujours la force et l’amour brut. Notre beau tatoueur ne déroge pas à la règle. Bourru, taciturne, il sait se montrer jaloux quand il voit qu’Hailey pourrait bien lui échapper. J’ai été ravie que la jeune femme le fasse sortir de sa zone de confort, car je pressentais une histoire d’amour poignante et je n’ai pas été déçue. Dans les précédents tomes déjà, j’avais une profonde tendresse pour cet homme qui semble se préserver de tout. Il est très réservé et ne laisse personne l’approcher. Découvrir son histoire m’a enchantée. Ses failles sont nombreuses, ce qui en fait un personnage complet et attachant. Le couple qu’il forme avec Hailey est parfait, à mes yeux, car l’un va panser les blessures de l’autre.
•
Si tu veux te faire tatouer par le beau Sloane, c’est ici : https://amzn.to/3mVBsIG
April 18, 2021
La novella "A l'encre des secrets" est une histoire que j'ai beaucoup aimée : en effet, elle met en scène Hailey Monroe, une jeune femme pâtissière, dont la boutique se trouve à côté du salon de tatouage des Montgomery et Sloane Gordon, l'un des tatoueurs. Tous deux sont visiblement attirés l'un par l'autre depuis des années mais aucun d'entre eux n'a fait le premier pas (chacun a des blessures secrètes et semblent penser qu'ils ne sont pas faits l'un pour l'autre) mais un jour, tout va changer : un client de Sloane va la draguer devant lui et au lieu de le repousser, cette fois, elle l'invite à venir prendre un café avec elle après. Cela va alors faire réagir le jeune homme et après une explication un peu houleuse, il va lui proposer de sortir avec lui... mais comme je l'ai dit juste avant, tous deux ont des blessures qui les ont marqués aussi bien dans leur chair que dans leur âme : pourront-ils passer outre et accéder au bonheur qu'ils méritent? eh bien, vous le saurez en lisant cette superbe novella très forte et très sexy à la fois...
Mon avis : je vous l'ai dit, j'adore les romances de cette auteure et la raison principale est que non seulement, elle a le don de créer des personnages attachants (car on suit des familles et des amis) mais aussi d'aborder dans chaque roman ou novella, un thème fort et quand je dis fort, c'est la maladie, le traumatisme, un handicap etc etc. sans que ce soit pesant ou moralisateur.
Ici, nous avons deux héros qui se tournent autour depuis des années mais qui préfèrent rester amis plutôt que de se lancer dans une histoire d'amour, chacun pensant n'être pas prêt, soit pas fait pour l'autre. Tous deux sont amis avec les Montgomery et ils font quasiment partie de la famille et c'est difficile pour eux de les voir agir ainsi. Aucun ne sait pourtant quels sont leurs problèmes et ils voient bien qu'ils ont des blessures fortes mais ne sachant pas de quoi il s'agit, ils est difficile de les aider afin de les pousser à vivre leur histoire. Il faudra que Sloane réalise qu'il pourrait la perdre s'il ne réagit pas pour qu'enfin, il ose lui proposer un rendez-vous mais il est loin de se douter que c'est une survivante comme lui, même si tous deux a vécu son combat différemment.
Chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2021/...
Mon avis : je vous l'ai dit, j'adore les romances de cette auteure et la raison principale est que non seulement, elle a le don de créer des personnages attachants (car on suit des familles et des amis) mais aussi d'aborder dans chaque roman ou novella, un thème fort et quand je dis fort, c'est la maladie, le traumatisme, un handicap etc etc. sans que ce soit pesant ou moralisateur.
Ici, nous avons deux héros qui se tournent autour depuis des années mais qui préfèrent rester amis plutôt que de se lancer dans une histoire d'amour, chacun pensant n'être pas prêt, soit pas fait pour l'autre. Tous deux sont amis avec les Montgomery et ils font quasiment partie de la famille et c'est difficile pour eux de les voir agir ainsi. Aucun ne sait pourtant quels sont leurs problèmes et ils voient bien qu'ils ont des blessures fortes mais ne sachant pas de quoi il s'agit, ils est difficile de les aider afin de les pousser à vivre leur histoire. Il faudra que Sloane réalise qu'il pourrait la perdre s'il ne réagit pas pour qu'enfin, il ose lui proposer un rendez-vous mais il est loin de se douter que c'est une survivante comme lui, même si tous deux a vécu son combat différemment.
Chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2021/...
January 10, 2020
Two hard gritty topics that are not really suitable for a novella length book.
Really not topics suitable for a novella in this book but as our two H’s are side characters, that is what they get.
I love that this author tackles everyday gritty subjects but this should have been a full length story.
Breast cancer survivor heroine and a soldier with guilt PTSD.
Loved that Hailey and Sloane finally got up the guts to move forward after YEARS of wanting the other. Mainly due to another man making Sloan jealous though.
Both strong and admirable characters but Sloan’s past is only given one paragraph.
We get a hint of his childhood but no explanation. Did his dad take a gentle soul and force him away from being an artist and push him to become a soldier.
Would explain why his horror PTSD is so strong.
Enjoyed this story but thought it wraps up too quickly and unrealistically.
Sloan will still have his nightmares and being with Hailey is not a magic cure all.
Really not topics suitable for a novella in this book but as our two H’s are side characters, that is what they get.
I love that this author tackles everyday gritty subjects but this should have been a full length story.
Breast cancer survivor heroine and a soldier with guilt PTSD.
Loved that Hailey and Sloane finally got up the guts to move forward after YEARS of wanting the other. Mainly due to another man making Sloan jealous though.
Both strong and admirable characters but Sloan’s past is only given one paragraph.
We get a hint of his childhood but no explanation. Did his dad take a gentle soul and force him away from being an artist and push him to become a soldier.
Would explain why his horror PTSD is so strong.
Enjoyed this story but thought it wraps up too quickly and unrealistically.
Sloan will still have his nightmares and being with Hailey is not a magic cure all.
April 13, 2019
After all this time, it's finally happened. Sloane and Haley finally decide to take a chance on each other. After all the sexual tension between these two characters, I couldn't have been more excited when they finally got their own story.
Hidden Ink is guaranteed to make you feel. As someone who has suffered from PTSD for many years, I have to start off with how impressed I was at Ms. Ryan's handing of a character suffering from this condition. It's not an easy condition to deal with and often misrepresented and misunderstood. Yet Ms Ryan approached the subject with obvious respect and understanding to the seriousness of the condition. It's a beautifully told story of friendship, self redemption, and finding love inspite of not feeling worthy of being loved in the first place.
Hidden Ink is guaranteed to make you feel. As someone who has suffered from PTSD for many years, I have to start off with how impressed I was at Ms. Ryan's handing of a character suffering from this condition. It's not an easy condition to deal with and often misrepresented and misunderstood. Yet Ms Ryan approached the subject with obvious respect and understanding to the seriousness of the condition. It's a beautifully told story of friendship, self redemption, and finding love inspite of not feeling worthy of being loved in the first place.
October 13, 2019
Great FUCKING series
Like I've already said before in my other reviews, this author is authentically astonishing to me with series she written so far. The characters, the every changing storyline, the backstories......... astonishing. Not only have spent my entire ebook budget for the month on the series books that I've read so far, I still have at least one more book downloaded with the last if my bank account. And right now I'm going straight to it so I can start reading it. Thanks so much for writing. A sale would be helpful though since I'm only going to get $24 more this month around the 25th of October and I'm going through them like drinking water. You are so extremely talented.
Like I've already said before in my other reviews, this author is authentically astonishing to me with series she written so far. The characters, the every changing storyline, the backstories......... astonishing. Not only have spent my entire ebook budget for the month on the series books that I've read so far, I still have at least one more book downloaded with the last if my bank account. And right now I'm going straight to it so I can start reading it. Thanks so much for writing. A sale would be helpful though since I'm only going to get $24 more this month around the 25th of October and I'm going through them like drinking water. You are so extremely talented.
March 2, 2020
Another OK read. A fast paced novella. The narration was ok.
I liked Hailey. She was strong, and managed to stay that way through the book. She had a couple of moments of doubt or hesitancy, but that didn't stop her from standing her ground or cause the old "I'm not good enough" angst.
That was all Sloane's department. I got that he suffered from PTSD. It was starting to rear its ugly head again, but he didn't DO anything about it. I didn't hear him mention going back to counseling, or talking to anyone. I didn't like Sloane.
I don't understand why the characters in the Montgomery Ink series have all these secrets they don't want to share, but their secrets affect so many people.
I give this novella 3.5 stars because of Hailey.
I liked Hailey. She was strong, and managed to stay that way through the book. She had a couple of moments of doubt or hesitancy, but that didn't stop her from standing her ground or cause the old "I'm not good enough" angst.
That was all Sloane's department. I got that he suffered from PTSD. It was starting to rear its ugly head again, but he didn't DO anything about it. I didn't hear him mention going back to counseling, or talking to anyone. I didn't like Sloane.
I don't understand why the characters in the Montgomery Ink series have all these secrets they don't want to share, but their secrets affect so many people.
I give this novella 3.5 stars because of Hailey.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2018
Hailey Monroe and Stone Gordon's story was fantastic!! I love the fact that they had some really serious issues to tackle. Hailey, with her past cancer and Stone with PTSD. I only wish the story would have been longer but I understand why it was not. This is the Montgomery ink series so this story was not about any of the Montgomery siblings, though they were in the story. This one focused on to strong people that have been dealing with serious past issues that are still haunting. This author took on very deep and emotional issues. I loved it!
Now I'm moving on to Alex Montgomery's story and I look forward to really getting to know him.
Now I'm moving on to Alex Montgomery's story and I look forward to really getting to know him.
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